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Arsenal urged to sign West Ham star Declan Rice this summer

By on April 12, 2023

Declan-Rice

Former striker turned pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor has urged Arsenal to sign West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice this summer.

Speculation surrounding Rice’s future continues to grow ahead of the summer window after the midfielder – who has entered the final 15 months of his current contract – turned down several proposals to sign an extension with David Moyes’ side in order to take the next step in his career.

Arsenal have been mentioned as the most interested club in securing the England international’s signature and it has also been suggested that the North London club have already made contact with the player’s representatives over a potential summer move.

However, West Ham have made it clear that they are not going to let Rice leave for a discount fee if they are forced to cash-in and want more than £100m. So, it seems Arsenal will have to dig deep if they decide to make a concrete approach to sign the 24-year-old at the end of this season.

Rice to Arsenal

Speaking on talkSport (via HITC), Agbonlahor has said that Arsenal should spend once again in the upcoming summer window and purchase Rice – who will be a ‘statement’ signing.

Agbonlahor said:

“Arsenal need to go again in the summer with transfers. Declan Rice, go and get him. Make a statement.”

Rice has already showcased his talent in the Premier League and on the international stage in recent years. So, the 24-year-old would certainly be a great coup for Arsenal if they manage to lure him to north London this summer.

However, the mentioned £100m price tag could be a huge stumbling block in getting this deal done. Arsenal want to break the club’s transfer record – which is £72m – to sign Rice during the off-season but, they are reportedly reluctant to match West Ham’s asking price.

So, it would be difficult for Mikel Arteta’s side to broker this deal if the Hammers stay firm on their valuation. It is going to be interesting to see whether Arsenal manage to persuade West Ham to lower their asking price to get this deal done for an affordable price should the Gunners opt to formalise their interest in signing the Englishman at the end of this season.